As I learned about Melusina through The Legend of Melusina and The Romance of the Faery Melusine, I became intrigued by what these stories say about man’s relationship with the natural world. Chapter one of The Romance of the Faery Melusine discusses man’s innate desire to conquer “the unknown” as doing so is “the extension of their physical and spiritual power” (23). At the beginning of the chapter, the nature surrounding the village is described as “menacing,” “dangerous,” and “somehow diabolic” (11). The natural enviornment is seen as unpredictable and threatening— and confronting nature’s force is explained to be a true test of character. 

This merciless description of nature differs greatly from the words used to describe Melusine. Legend of Melusina describes the maiden as beautiful and well-mannered (Bacchilega, Brown 87). The Romance of Faery Melusine emphasizes Melusine’s beauty by illustrating her as a “force of light” (25) that is “smiling upon” Raymondin (25). Despite Melusine’s connection to the natural world, she is far from the savage description of nature given earlier in the story. In fact, she is not “diabolic” (11) but rather “a faithful Christian” (25) meant to “put a seal of truth upon the words of the old lord” (26). This portrayal suggests that Melusine is the embodiment of harmony and goodness within the natural world. 

Perhaps Raymond’s broken vow of not seeing Melusine on Saturdays is a cautionary tale explaining the consequences of violating nature’s laws. Melusine’s transformation into a serpent or dragon may be symbolic of man’s arrogance and pride. Do humans need to conquer the unknown to truly show their “mettle” (12)? Maybe embracing and respecting our natural world is a better testament to our spirit and morals. 

Overall, the story of Melusina highlights the complex relationship humans have with nature and warns humanity of the consequences that come with disrupting nature’s balance.